EmployIndy is proud to celebrate our partnership with OneAmerica Financial, a company demonstrating its commitment to workforce equity and economic mobility. Having recently been certified through EmployIndy’s Good Wages Initiative (GWI), OneAmerica has pledged to provide competitive wages that support the financial stability of their employees. By committing to paying at least $18 per hour and offering health insurance benefits that promote long-term career growth, they are setting a strong example for employers across Indianapolis. 

“We believe every OneAmerica Financial associate should have a path to achieve financial certainty through a career that enables their overall success,” said J. Scott Davison, chairman, president, and CEO of OneAmerica Financial. “Our vision is to build financial security for today and generations to come, which applies to our associates as much as our customers.” 

Beyond their commitment to fair wages, OneAmerica is also partnering with EmployIndy’s Modern Apprenticeship Program (MAP) to take a proactive approach in addressing their talent pipeline needs through youth apprenticeship. Having hired five apprentices to date, two of which have completed the program, they provide students, like Zion Peterson, with hands-on experience in financial services while they complete their high school education. By fostering early career pathways, OneAmerica is not only equipping young professionals with valuable skills, mentorship, and opportunities for long-term success, they’re finding a strategic solution to close the skills gap and co-develop their next generation of workers. 

“The partnership between OneAmerica and EmployIndy is invaluable, as it exemplifies a shared commitment to supporting a quality workforce and economic mobility,” said Jay Styles, Senior Vice President of Partnerships and Talent Connections at EmployIndy. “By providing competitive wages and fostering early career pathways, OneAmerica is setting a powerful example for other employers and creating meaningful opportunities for the community.” 

To learn how your company can partner with EmployIndy to build workforce equity and economic mobility in our city, send us a note at [email protected] to get the conversation started. 

When Patrick Evans first connected with Edna Martin Christian Center (EMCC) in August of 2024 he had recently been released from prison and had never held a job before. But with the support of EMCC and EmployIndy, Patrick found a path forward—one paved with opportunity, training, and unwavering support.   

At EMCC Patrick enrolled in a work readiness program where he honed his interviewing, resume, and professional skills. He showed up every day, committed to learning and building a foundation for his future. After completing the program, he even took an additional customer service class to further prepare for employment.   

Having gained important employability skills and looking to take that next step towards a career, EmployIndy’s Talent Bound Manager, Dwayne Donigan, coordinated a fully funded four-week paid internship work exchange (WEX) opportunity for Patrick at Gleaners Food Bank of Indiana. His training in customer service and the skills developed at EMCC made him a strong candidate, and Gleaners took notice. 

“Patrick showed up to the interview right on time, and he came prepared with all his certifications and an updated resume. He was not only professional and polite but also greeted us with a friendly smile,” said Stephanie Dodds, Recruiting and Retentions Specialist for Gleaners. “We were really impressed with him throughout the interview process.” 

Fast forward and Patrick has continued his remarkable stride. Now past his 90-day mark, his supervisors at Gleaners have had nothing but praise for his attitude and performance. He has transitioned from a WEX participant to a valued employee in their warehouse shipping department. “Patrick has become a fantastic addition to our team, and we couldn’t be happier with his performance so far, “said Dodds. And after receiving an outstanding achievement award from EMCC, he had the privilege of delivering a heartfelt speech to his peers at EMCC over the holidays. 

A community-based organization (CBO) in YES Indy’s network of CBOs, EMCC’s support extended beyond training. When Patrick faced car troubles, they went above and beyond, waking up early to ensure he could get to work on time. Now, they are assisting him in securing a reliable personal vehicle, further solidifying his independence and stability.   

Gleaners, inspired by Patrick’s growth and professionalism, is eager to collaborate with EmployIndy again in the future as they seek to recruit and fulfill their talent needs.   

In 2024, 10,923 clients and participants enrolled in coaching and training through EmployIndy programs and initiatives, with 275 certifications earned in advanced trainings across the YES Indy network. If you’re an employer looking to build or diversify your talent pipeline, reach out to [email protected] to get connected.